Top Shortbelly Rockfish Fishing Countries

The shortbelly rockfish (Sebastes jordani) is a small, schooling species found primarily along the Pacific coast of North America, from British Columbia to Baja California, with the highest concentrations off central and southern California. Characterized by its short, rounded body and distinctive coloration, the shortbelly rockfish plays a vital ecological role as prey for larger fish, marine mammals, and seabirds. Unlike many other rockfish, the shortbelly rockfish has not been a major target for commercial fisheries due to its small size and limited market demand for human consumption. However, it is occasionally harvested as bycatch in trawl fisheries targeting other groundfish species, particularly in the United States. The United States, specifically California, is the primary country where shortbelly rockfish are landed, though landings are relatively minor compared to other rockfish species. Canada and Mexico may also encounter this species incidentally, but targeted fisheries are virtually nonexistent. In recent years, there has been some interest in the potential for shortbelly rockfish as a source for fishmeal and animal feed, but it remains a largely underutilized species in global fisheries.

Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.